broomrape

[ broom-reyp, broom- ]

noun

1. any of various parasitic plants, especially of the genus Orobanche, living on the roots of broom and other plants.

broomrape

/ ˈbrʊm-; ˈbruːmˌreɪp /

noun

1. any orobanchaceous plant of the genus Orobanche : brownish small-flowered leafless parasites on the roots of other plants, esp on legumes

Word History and Origins

Origin of broomrape¹

1570–80; partial translation of Medieval Latin rāpum genistae tuber of the broom plant

Word History and Origins

Origin of broomrape¹

C16: adaptation and partial translation of Medieval Latin rāpum genistae tuber (hence: root nodule) of Genista (a type of broom plant)

Example Sentences

We have also the pest of broomrape; and if badly infested by this weed, great destruction follows to the crop.

From Project Gutenberg

The Broomrape is now becoming a very pernicious clover weed, especially in lighter soils.

From Project Gutenberg